LET ME INTRODUCE MYSELF…MONICA PORTER

“I do believe we’re all connected. I do believe in positive

energy. I do believe in the power of prayer. I do believe in

putting good out into the world. And I believe in taking care

of each other.” - Harvey Fierstein

WHAT MAKES UP MY CHARACTER?

What drives me is hard work and never giving up! BTW, my logo is Wonder Woman! I am:● conscientious● organized● team player● communicator● structured● positive● reliable● honest● believe in myself and others● efficient

HOW LONG IN THE PROGRAM…….

I was accepted into the MLIS program here at Wayne State University in January 2015 after graduating from Eastern Michigan University in December 2014. I have been in the program for a year and this is my 4th semester.

I earned my B.S. degree in English Language/AfricanAmerican Studies at the age of 47!

Professional Experience

● Started working for libraries in 1986 as a work study student at the Municipal Reference Library in the City County Building downtown Detroit.

● In the Fall of 1986 I worked as a student library assistant at the Detroit Public Library, Main Branch. I shelved, pulled and shelf read books.

● In 1987, I became a library clerk with full benefits at the age of 21. I worked in the General Information department assisting patrons with microfilm/microfiche machines and periodicals.

● In 1989, I worked as a library clerk for both Campbell and Parkman Branches in circulation which also made me want to be more involved with community.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

● In 2001, I was hired into University Michigan, Art, Architecture and Engineering Library as an Information Desk/Evening Supervisor. I assisted faculty and students with course reserves. I also supervised students at the information desk.

● In 2007, I was hired as the Circulation Coordinator at the University of Michigan, Music Library. I hired, trained and supervised students. I was also in charge of payroll, financial reports as well as daily circulation matters.

● In 2009, I was hired as a Reserves Coordinator at the Shapiro Undergraduate Library. I currently assist with the processing of reserve requests as well as troubleshoot course reserve matters among faculty and students in addition to circulation desk matters.

FUTURE ASPIRATIONS

I want to work for a public library because I want to help communities and libraries connect. I want to provide the tools of research, the motivation to attend a college and to provide a learning of technology. I want to be an outreach youth services librarian. I feel it’s very important especially for the schools that do not have the appropriate tools to help that student that would like to go to college. In other words provide the help that will give a student confidence whether it is technology or knowledge of reading so that they can excel in any area of their life. I want to work in the communities of the underrepresented or disadvantaged. I also want to work with teachers and school librarians to improve the overall programming and after school programs in their schools. There was a time when I didn’t want to become a librarian, but the library found me. It drew me into a world of possibilities whether to help the youth or adults.

PERSONAL CONNECTION

Family● husband, Tyrone of

21 years.● son, Mylen● son, Tyrell● doggie, Craig

Favorites● reading (African

American fiction)● writing● music (soul, jazz,

gospel)● traveling● spending time with

family● going to the movies

(thrillers)● going to concerts

and plays

I am also a new grandmaTo Shaylen Noelle PorterBorn on December 29, 2015!